Baijnath, Kausani - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 17 km from Kausani and 21 km from Bageshwar, Baijnath is a small ancient town situated on the banks of the Gomti River in Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, India. Baijnath is most noted for its ancient temples and is one of the top places to visit in Kausani.

Once known as Kartikyapura, Baijnath was the capital of the Katyuri kings who ruled Uttaranchal during 12th and 13th centuries AD. Baijnath is famous for Baijnath Temple which is devoted to Lord Shiva. Baijnath Temple was constructed during the 12th century and as per the legend Lord Shiva and Parvati were married here at the confluence of River Garur Ganga and River Gomti. The temple is approached from the riverside by a flight of steps made of stones constructed by the orders of a Katyuri queen.

The Baijnath temple is actually a temple complex with the idols of Shiva, Ganesh, Parvati, Chandika, Kuber, Surya and Brahma. The temple of Mahishasur Mardini portrays the slaying of the bull-headed demon by the Goddess Kali. Situated on the left bank of the Gomti River at an elevation of 1126 m, these temples are constructed in stone. The main temple that houses a beautiful idol of Parvati is chiseled in black stone. The complex of Baijnath Temple is decorated with delicate and intricate carvings. The complex is maintained by Archeological Survey of India. Just outside the temple complex there lies a lake full of fishes Golden Masheer and fishing is strictly restricted.

Around 3 km from Baijnath, there is a Kot Bhramari Devi Temple or Kot Ka Mandir, which was once a fort owned by the Katyuri Kings. This temple is famous for the sculpted statue of Lord Vishnu. There is a local belief that the goddess, Kot Bhramari Devi's face should not be shown to anyone except the priest of the temple if not followed this advice the entire Katur Valley will face ill luck and massive disaster will follow hence backside of the goddess is worshipped, except during the annual festival of Nandaashtmi during September month when the Raj Jaat Yatra which takes place once in twelve years. There is also a myth that Adiguru Shankaracharya stayed on this temple overnight while en route to Badrinath.

Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM